Reverence of a Ronin

by Bree M. Lewandowski

"A great and mysterious event occurred. Religious talisman came fluttering down out of the empty sky. Men dressed as women. Women dressed as men. The town's people dancing through the village. The villagers cavorting in towns. Whole populations drunk. Orgiastic behavior in the streets and paper talismans falling from the Heavens, like cherry blossoms in the wind. The world was coming to an end. A new one was apparent." ~ Iwakura Tomomi.                                                                                                                   

                                                                       

 

    Western winds blow revolution across Japan as Emperor Meiji seeks to modernize his country. The changes, the whispers of siege and war in retaliation, sweep over Ono Aia. Her small world, wound and bound like the kimono around her body, revolves around the geishas she serves and the geisha she hopes to be. 

 

      But upheaval cannot be stopped. Aia is flung into the arms of a swordsman with obsidian eyes and a blade that can cut more than mortal flesh. His name is Nen.

 

   At his side, not only does Aia learn of a mythical realm beyond human comprehension, she learns where her heart may truly lie. Perhaps it is not in the study and perfection of the geisha tradition. Perhaps, it beside a man larger than life. His size terrifies and thrills her. His black eyes dazzle and delight her. 

 

      But the spirits of Japanese lore could destroy man's reality. Can the fates of the mortal and fantastical world remain in balance? Or will Aia find her heart only to lose it in the uproar? 

 

Lose yourself in the sweep of this historical fantasy romance from author Bree M. Lewandowski!

 

128 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2022

About the author

Having lived all her life in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, author Bree M. Lewandowski incorporates all aspects of her life in her writing. A ballet dancer at a young age, continuing to teach ballet through her career as an author, she often turns to the tumultuous world of dance to find threads of a story. In love with classical literature, her writing not only pays homage to the style of writers like Dumas and Hugo, she also believes in creating main characters who are larger than life. Yet, struggles with body image, mental and emotional health, and the strained relationships so many have also play in and out of Lewandowski's writing. In the end, all these attributes combined, she loves to tell a love story.

Reviews

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aia wants nothing more than to learn the skills of being a Geisha girl. Her whole world involves Geishas, whether it is serving them or being around them. One day she hopes to have the beauty and the poise of a Geisha girl herself. Aia is not built like the other Geisha girls, so for now she must remain happy to remain a Geisha in-training. When one of the Geisha girls is unable to provide companionship Aia is given her chance to pursue her dream of becoming a Geisha. During the evening she meets a swordsman named Nen who terrifies yet excites her. Nen is not only intimidating in size but his black eyes strike Aia with fear. Despite his size and intimidating presence Aia finds herself attracted to this mighty swordsman.

When talks of changes come and the possibility of impending war, Japan is suddenly thrown into a revolution. During the ensuing chaos the lives of Aia and others are put in danger. Nen swoops in and saves Aia from the violence that has erupted and introduces her to a world that is beyond anything that she could have ever imagined existed. He takes her to a mythical realm and introduces her to some of its inhabitants. Aia quickly learns that Nen has been fighting his own battles for years as he keeps Japan and its citizens safe from worlds and forces, they do not know exist. Aia realizes that he is not just large in stature but that he has a large and caring heart. Can the mortal world and the mythical realm coexist? Will Japan be thrown into war? Will Nen be able to bring peace to the land?

I was mesmerized by this book and found it impossible to put down. I was drawn into the world of Japan and the lives of Aia and Nen. I enjoyed seeing the world of a Geisha through Aia’s eyes and it really got me thinking about what a Geisha must go through. Is this what it's like for all Geisha girls? I also loved the fact that Aia was a bit more voluptuous and rounded then a typical Geisha girl would be, yet it did not stop her from pursuing her dreams. At first Nen comes across as being cold, dark, and mysterious but once you start reading you realize that there is far more to his character than meets the eye. Aia and Nen appear to be exact opposites, yet they end up being so perfectly matched for each other. Nen is a proud and strong swordsman who not only protects Aia, but the people of Japan, from dark forces that exist in a realm that they do not know exist. Aia is strong, smart, and courageous so she can hold her own and stand up for herself when it is necessary for her to do so.

[Lorrene Huisman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing, in every which way that it could be. I was amazed at the story concept, and how things went and developed, and how the characters faced the unthinkable through out the novel. It was well put together, and a easy read as well. I was very much content and interested as I read this book.

Loved the historical side of the story. Loved seeing the world through the eyes of a geisha. Its something hat makes you think, if that is how Aia saw the world, perhaps many who are a geisha see the world the same. I loved her outlook on life. Enjoyed her time and moments with Nen. He was defiantly more than he appeared at first glance I loved his deep underneath lining. The moments shared between these two really added to the story. Another factor I loved was the way the author was able to transport me to Japan, literally! I felt I was right there with all the fine details that they used. Beautiful and haunting is the best way to sum up my feelings. Wonderful read! Highly recommend!

Wondaful work of art story! The story mesmerized me through out my reading, and I could not step away even for a moment, as the constant desire of the book's will power to see what would unfold next. Highly recommend reading this book if you have not yet, it is fo sure a must read! And the author as well!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author always has a knack for transporting me with her words and making me feel as if I am in a magical world. It doesn’t even have to be a magical type themed novel to feel magical as I read, her writing is so invoking and mesmerizing I am completely taken away on these journeys as I read that I was wrapped up in the story and transported. I love every moment I spend with the characters and become so fully invested every time. This time was no exception to the rule and I loved that we got to see the side of a geisha's life. I have always had a bit of a fascination with that world and so this was a nice little peek into that for me with the added bonus of a gorgeous romance storyline to follow as well. This story was often haunting at times and yet I felt moved as well. I found myself really feeling the gambit of emotions as I read, and really that is what we all want to feel when we slip into a novel. I couldn’t put it down and found myself reading this well past my bedtime to see how things would culminate. I most certainly cannot wait to see what else this author is cooking up for us next!

[Chey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aia is thrown into a world she never knew existed and finds herself in the arms of Nen, a strong swordsman who can show her what she is missing from life.

The plot is based around historical Japanese fantasy and is an absolutely fantastic read. I loved the characters and how Aia and Nen work together. The way Aia describes her inner turmoil felt believable and she felt like a real person in the way she portrayed her emotions.

The plot was highly ambitious with a lot of working parts that needed detail. I wish the book was longer so that we can fully explore this world and gain a better understanding for what the characters are dealing with. This book could have easily been double its length and explained many things better. The transition from the real to mythical world was very abrupt and could have used more details to transition smoothly.

Overall, the plot is worth the read with characters you can relate to and fall in love with. If the book was longer, this would easily be five stars.

[Chandler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author for giving me this ebook for free in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 3 stars. Overall i think this book woould have worked better as a series. I loved the promise of fantisy but the Fantisy did not come in until the last couple of chapters. Romance was strong but rushed.
I would have liked to see more world building and how that influences the choices of the characters. the book also could have gone into more depth with the coltural significance of certian traditions. THe aspects of what makes this book fantosy i would have loved to see more of in the beginning.

Overall though this book was a good fast paced read and had good potential!

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and well written tale. Aia is a well written character and her story shows her the world isn't black and white and that there are other paths she can tread. Looking forward to reading more by this author.

[R Vigna · Rating 5 out of 5]

😭 I simply loved it all. I don’t know how she made me love a damn book so much. Please, read!

[Cath · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book takes readers back to a time when Western influences were beginning to impact on Japan, with some welcoming such things and others completely against it. The story focuses on young Aia, who has been taken on by a small geisha house on the outskirts of Nagoya, with the promises of being trained to be a geisha herself, but she has far too full a figure, neck and face to even compare. The mother of the house, Okaasan, has no intention of training her or even allowing the other girls, who Aia calls sisters, to actually help train her, instead using her as a house servant and to help prepare the house, food and girls for visitors. When Lord Kime comes to the geisha house with his entourage, he expects the best girls to accompany him and bring him entertainment, but Aia’s sister Yui, was being rebellious after already being out on work the night before. She refused, saying her wrist was injured, leaving Okaasan to send in Aia to pour the tea, with another geisha girl. She was dressed up as a geisha, with only her bottom lip red, to show her untrained status. Trying to get into the room properly, she ends up caught on the Lord’s guard, Nen’s sword caught on her kimono. The two are caught in an instant, but improper attraction. He gives her assistance with her kitchen and water fetching duties the next morning without any issues, wanting to assist her an ease her load. Before the two girls can travel off with Lord Kime for a few days, mythical creatures appear in the garden and Ren fights them off, amazed that Aia could hear them and later be attacked by another she could see. It shouldn’t be possible for a normal human being!

When locals realise the Lord is leaving, rebellion starts and the geisha house is attacked, including the girls within. Yui runs off first, grabbing the funds she had been secreting away, followed shortly after by Aia, but it is too late and the people have already got inside and are starting to ransack the place and fight. Ren comes for her and she insists on Yui also being saved, which Ren does. He takes them to a safe house some distance away and is clearly a Ronin now, following no Lord anymore. Aia is soon going to find herself involved in a journey to the location of beings of a mythical realm on Mt Fuji, as Ren explains he is actually a soldier of the Celestial Court, responsible for the world visible to them and none other. Ren tells his Lord there that the mythical world is in revolt and attacking humans, which its creatures shouldn’t do in his presence. Aia is exposed to many secrets in her travels with Ren, knowing that her previous dreams of becoming a geisha are never going to happen, but that she can have a future with this extraordinary soldier, who holds more secrets than any person she could imagine. A mix of folklore and mythical beings she grew up hearing stories of from her father out in the rice fields, becoming reality for this young woman, as revolution and rebellion start to form in her world, as influences on their world change and the modern world intrudes. Set hundreds of years ago, when the world was very different and beliefs vastly influenced by folklore and word of mouth. A mysterious swordsman has given his future to serve the Celestial Court and finds the one woman who can see it all, even when she shouldn’t be able to, making a change to the Celestial Court leadership and the decisions of the princess who made the sacrifice to begin it all. Difficult to have words you don’t understand from the very second word at the beginning of the story, although they are explained with definitions at the end of the book. If you like historical folklore tales with a hint of romance, then this would be for you. I found it a bit harder to follow with all the foreign terms mixed in, which help to bring it authenticity at least. I have always been fascinated by samurai and thought the mix of fantasy and mythical creatures would be an easy read, but it wasn’t for me. Not to take away from the story of the two main characters, who bring an interesting dynamic to their time and story. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Sky Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Quick Read Worth Checking Out

Overall Rating: 3.2 Stars

Reverence of a Ronin is a beautifully written Japanese historical fantasy, that although demanded a longer length to fully explore it’s ambitious plot, is still a quick, enjoyable read.

The prose is lovely, with beautiful environmental descriptions that made the Japanese setting really come to life. Aia’s way of describing her inner turmoil, wants and desires is near poetic in the beginning of the book and made it a pleasure to read through her narration.

All of the secondary characters in the book are given their own attention to make them feel distinct and interesting— set apart from each other as you would expect to see when you meet new people in everyday life. Many of the books I’ve recently read treat their side characters rather generically, so it was wonderful to see such focus given to the cast of side characters in Reverence of a Ronin.

My main issue with the story is that the progression from the grounded in reality beginning to the mythical rest of the story felt disconnected and abrupt. Rather than seamlessly transitioning from the realistic to the fantastical, the side characters and lovely historical setting felt shoved to the side to make room for the more mythological parts of the narrative. As such, many of the deeper motivations for Aia and the other characters were lost in the story’s sudden pivot.

Overall, I believe the plot required a longer word count to fully explore all the story was trying to achieve. More development of the mythological world, more scenes organically tying the beginning to the end, and a more fleshed out relationship between Aia and Nen would have made the existing story a lot more cohesive.

Despite the issues I had, I still devoured the book regardless, as the writing is well done and the romance is decent if a little rushed. If you’re looking for a quick read, this one is worth checking out.

[Darla Yocom · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was intrigued to read this book after reading the synopsis and appreciating the fabulous cover art.

Ono Aia begins as a timid young woman living in Japan with aspirations to be someone desired and of importance. As a geisha-in-training, she was often ridiculed based on her body shape which clearly led to a dampening of her confidence. Her bosom and hips were larger than most, which some did not find appealing. Aia’s expectations regarding how her life would turn out was not as positive as she’d like but she hungered for a chance to prove she could do whatever was necessary.

Just as Aia thought her time to shine would never come, a change in circumstances allows her to present herself as Ume, while very important dignitaries visit the area. A dark and mysterious guardsman immediately catches her eye and life as she knows it changes in the blink of an eye.

The remainder of the story includes danger, action, mystery and adventure all while Aia learns more about herself, her strength and her openness for love.

I enjoyed reading this book and liked how the author ended the story making the reader want even more. They could clearly and easily continue with this storyline and build out the characters a bit more. Especially with Nen and his background, as he could be an immensely valuable and adored character. To follow Aia and her journey into learning more about her strengths, her desires, as well as her overall growth and maturity could be a substantial opportunity for the readers and author.

I believe readers will thoroughly enjoy this book and the phenomenal imagery.

I give this 4 out of 5 stars!

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lets head to Japan in the time of Geisha and warlords . Where the winds of change are coming . Aia is bound to train as a geisha and serve as the other geisha's do . When a warrior comes into her life and she is flung into his arms as her world is upheaved. Nen is more then a swordsman , his blade can cut through more then just mortal flesh . When she is at Nen's side she finds out there is more to the world . She learns of a mythical realm and most important she finds that she may be meant for more then being a geisha .
This is one of those novellas where you find you instantly love the characters . Aia is one of those women who wants to belong and do well at what she does . Geisha's world is one of service and being the perfect submissive . She really does comes off as naive through out the book . Nen well he is strong and sexy but there is an air of mystery to him, He is more then just a man and he wants Aia to come with him and see the world . They are such strong forces and together its like they are unstoppable.
This is one of those books where when you sit down and start reading you are transported to early Japan. The descriptions of that time are beautiful you feel like you are right there watching the Geisha and their duties . The author really told a great action packed story and you can really get into it . I did feel that she could of split the book in two and fleshed out the characters a little more and took us on an epic journey . Over all i enjoyed this book and the authors writing . So if you want a book that you can finish in a day check it out

[Susan Ratchford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reverence Of A Ronin
By Bree M. Lewandowski
Review by Susan Ratchford
5 stars

Ono Aia has always lusted for the life of a geisha even through all the hardships her sisters and her face everyday at the Okiya. It is all she knows in these uncertain times until chance brings her Nen, the deadly swordsman with obsidian eyes who seems entranced by her. She too feels a special connection with him and his larger than life size that overwhelms and excites her. With Nen, Aia learns of a mythical world and Japanese spirits that could threaten the balance of their very existence. Will man's reality be lost? Or will the balance be maintained?
I have never read anything like it! I absolutely enjoyed every second! Bree M. Lewandowski created a beautifully vivid story with characters that are relatable yet otherworldly. I am a big fan of cultural mythologies and love to see them woven into a story so effortlessly and believably. This whimsical and unexpected tale will stay with you long after you finish the last page. I highly recommend this book!

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an author that I have enjoyed from the first book I have picked up from her. This author’s writing style and attention to details make her books easy and entertaining to read. This book is no different. This is a historical shorter story that just packs a punch. The characters are connectable and truly bring the story to life. I enjoyed how they pulled me into the story and made the story realistic. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story that kept me turning pages to the end. This is a story about romance and fate. Aia is my favorite character. I enjoyed how strong and what she brought to the story. She made me feel for her in parts, for sure. The growth of her and also the other characters throughout the story is great. They added to the plot and its growth that kept it engaging. This is a great story that I really enjoyed from beginning to end. I highly recommend this book and this author.

[Brandy Mulder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start by saying that I'm a fan of anime and manga and this has a similar feel to eat. Anyone who is a fan of these things will tell you that there is struggle and not always a super happy ending. I get that Aia is dutiful and all that but there's moments where she seems overly naive. It starts almost like a fairytale and somewhat looses some of the emotional connection for me from the speed of the overall storyline. There's a couple of scenes where I feel like if there had been just a bit more to it there would have been major emotional impact. It's a good story with love, loss, a magical journey to save everyone, and some characters from Japanese folklore I just wish there was a hair more emotional depth to some of the scenes in the beginning. I would recommend older teen and up.

[Erica S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written with luscious imagery, Reverence of a Ronin is a gorgeous story. Aia is a geisha-in-training, learning the ways of beauty, poise, and companionship. She desires nothing more than to obtain the knowledge and skill necessary to be the epitome of geisha, even if it pains her to do so. Then she meets tall, dark and mysterious Nen, who fights enemies she didn't know existed and sets her heart to fluttering. When he saves her and her sister from a sudden threat, her heart opens to him and she is surprised by the depth of her feelings for him. Is a future with him possible, and is she willing to give up on her dream to find out?

The story flows well, and the plot is interesting. I would have liked to see a bit more character development to flesh out the cast and what makes them unique. All in all though, a good historical romance with spirit and heart.

[Breen · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I’m not so into historical fantasy romances but the cover image was beautiful like an anime and why not? Let’s give it a try! For instance, the book description of ancient Japan was stunning. I fall more in love with each description was like seeing it. Back to the story, it felt way too short though being historical a more extended plot would have been harder to continue, at least to me. Aia was an incredible characters with her emotions on point. You could feel them! Nen was fantastic too. They romance felt like insta-love and it was perfect. Being a fantasy romance there were some back and forward fantasy and reality moments that felt needed a deep explanation but overall it was a good story.”

[Caralee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I am reading this author and boy what a journey she has taken me on. I loved the historical fantasy world that was created. I really love historical romances and the drama added into this fantasy world just added to the excitement. I just couldn't put this book down. I really didn't want it to end but I still wanted to see how all would turn out.

I love how there are mythical creatures along with the real world. I like how there is a back story and how all is relient on the main character. I like how the author has chosen to go back in history in Japan. I also love that my interest was peaked and kept as the drama unfolded. I hope to read more from this author in the future.

[Jasmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn to this book by its cover! The black background mixed with hints of red and a beautiful geisha made me wonder what secrets hid behind this story. Set during a Revolution in Japan, the main character, Ono Aia has dreamed of becoming a geisha. However, her curves are unlike other geishas and she is ridiculed for her size. On a special night, Aia has the opportunity to be a geisha and meets a mysterious guardsmen named Nen. His dark eyes and large figure scare and intrigue Aia. Soon, he introduces her to a world she’s never experienced before. As Japan transforms its society, adding western influence, Aia questions her future. This was my first book by this author. I enjoyed it very much but wish it was a little longer.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!

I really wish this book was longer! I very much enjoyed reading about Aia and Nen. Being that the story was set in ancient Japan, had magical elements and geishas made it that much more interesting to me. Aia’s sister Yui is a geisha but Aia wasn’t a full blown geisha yet and it seemed like she was just kind of in limbo with her life. A chance meeting with Nen, a swordsman changes her perspective. I loved watching Nen and Aia’s relationship grow, as well as the dangerous and magical journey they embark on to see the world. I would definitely recommend this book!

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

As lovely as this haunting historical fantasy was if this book was longer, I think it would have reached its full potential. Having said that the story gives you a look at ancient Japan and trying to incorporate Western ways and their own traditions as history and fantasy meet.
The story is unique as Geishas, warlords, culture, legends, mythology, and folktales become reality. The world building descriptions make you feel as though you have been transported to mid-1800’s Japan.
This book is a quick read and is worth checking out.

[Lorralei Hoerner · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I love the cover.....it is stunning!! I really enjoyed this book with fantasy, romance and folklore. Aia is a geisha and at by chance she meets Nen, the guard of the king that comes to visit. The story unfolds as when unexplained things happen. Nen is there for Aia....and you are enveloped into this fantasy world of beings. I love the power of love between Nen and Aia. This story is different, intriguing and I would love to see more of Nen and Aia in their journey together. 🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 stars!

[Ryder Lyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thought-provoking and imaginative, Reverence of a Ronin is a lyrically written quick read that is sure to please readers who love history, romance, fantasy, and Japanese culture.
Contrary to other reviews and respectfully, I feel the progression was fine knowing that this novel was and is intended for quick escapism. I loved how I was able to pick up, read, and finish this book in a weekend which is something many busy readers will appreciate.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique, interesting story woven around mid-1800 Japan. Not knowing a lot about Japan I enjoyed the struggle of the people trying to embrace Western ways while still holding onto traditions. Then the story takes a fantastical turn when through Aia meets a swordsman Nen. He introduces her to a world where folktales become a reality. A quick read that left me with a desire to learn more about Japanese legends.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well writren historical Fantasy Fiction book that felt refreshing and unique. It is a short story so if easy to get through quickly. I really enjoyed the characters of this book. It feels like you go on their journey and watch them develop throughout. Everything is centred around them.
The author has a created an interesting story. It would definitely have stood up as a full length novel however I enjoyed it nonetheless.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was well written and a nice easy-read. I think the book should be a bit longer. The scenes where Nen and Aia go to Fuji and battle the inhabitants seem very rushed. I feel like it needs more context (maybe how Nen became part of the celestial court, more on how Princess Kaguya and the yokai made a treaty, etc). Other than that, the romance was nice and the characters were great! Highly recommend!

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this period piece that is set in the past when Japan was opened up to visitors and led to unrest for all the Japanese. It was a quick read that follows Aia and what occurs when she meets the sexy Ronin. A bit of a romance and paranormal feel to it with a mix of folklore that led to a fun tale I liked and enjoyed. It had some scenes that were funny, sad and scary lite. But made for a good read.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She thinks she is meant for one type of life but finding it may just lie in the arms of a strong man. She will meet him and her life will be turned upside down when she learns there is another way to live. Will she fall in love? Will they be together? See where it will take her

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brittany Wilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting read, could not put it down once I started. Its interesting to read about what it was like in Japan after the War and when there was more of a Western influence. Learnt a few things about Japanese culture that I didn't know before.

[Tegan Brinkman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect mix of fantasy, folk tales and a Romance with a hint of the geisha world just made this an easy read
More please.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ono Aia and guardsman Nen's story is well written with a very good storyline and kept me turning pages. I know I will read again. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.